Hello Everybody,
On July 20, 2008, I am participating in the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country half marathon. I will be running this 13.1 mile race as a member of Team Challenge to raise funds and awareness for research leading to improve treatment options and a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease. It is estimated that as many as 1.4 million Americans have IBD; however, many more suffer in silence due to potential embarrassment and alienation. Crohn's disease may occur in people of all ages, but it is primarily a disease of adolescents and young adults, affecting mainly those between 15 and 35. However, Crohn's disease can also occur in people who are 70 or older and in young children as well. In fact, 10 percent of those affected -- or an estimated 100,000 -- are youngsters under the age of 18. On average, people are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in their mid-30s, although the disease can occur at any age.

Following years of intestinal problems, in August 2007, my 12 yr old daughter was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. It is heartbreaking to hear a doctor deliver a diagnosis to a young child that she is plagued with a lifelong sentence that has no cure, and at best, can only be managed with a number of medications that oftentimes produce undesirable effects as well. Because this disease has invaded the lives of our family, and especially that of my daughter, together with the CCFA I am on a personal mission to bring awareness, support, and raise funds for research to this cause.

Together with your help we can make a difference! My goal is to raise at least $5000.00 and with everyone’s support we can reach and even surpass this goal. If you wish to help please visit my website at www.active.com/donate/napa08national/ebussey1 to donate on line or mail your donation directly to me at P.O. Box 15415, Hattiesburg, MS 39404. Make all checks out to CCFA. A minimum of 83 cents per dollar raised by CCFA goes directly to research and patient support, and your contribution is 100% tax deductible. If your company matches charitable contributions, please include matching forms with your donation. Of course, your good wishes and positive vibes to sustain me in my training and your praise as I cross the finish line will also be graciously accepted.

I am presently mobilized in the US Army, and at the moment stationed at Camp Shelby MS. I will be representing both the City of Birmingham and Laurel-Hattiesburg/Camp Shelby MS. If you feel that you cannot support this program please keep us in your prayers.
With my sincere thanks,

Ed Bussey (Allye’s Dad)
http://www.active.com/donate/napa08national/ebussey1
www.ccteamchallege.org

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